How to Get a Driving Licence in Kattanam (KL-31 Mavelikkara): Step-by-Step 2026
Published 2026-10-04 · Maria MDS, Kattanam
Getting your licence in Kattanam takes about five steps and at least 30 days from your learner's licence. Here's the whole route, in order, for anyone applying under the Mavelikkara Sub RTO (KL-31).
Step 1: Apply for a learner's licence on Sarathi
Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in, choose Kerala, and select Mavelikkara as your RTO. Fill in the application and pick the vehicle classes you want: MCWG for a geared bike, LMV for a car, or both. With Aadhaar authentication, most of the process is faceless and online.
Fees are roughly ₹150 per vehicle class plus a ₹50 test fee. Have a photo, signature and address proof ready. If you're 40 or older, you'll also need a medical certificate (Form 1A).
Step 2: Pass the online learner's test
The learner's test is a computer-based, multiple-choice test on road signs, traffic rules and safe driving. Watch the road-safety tutorial on Sarathi first and take the mock tests, which use the same type of questions. Check the current number of questions and pass mark on the portal when you book, because Kerala has revised the format before. If you fail, you can retake it after paying the retest fee.
Once you pass, download your learner's licence. It's valid for 6 months.
Step 3: Learn for at least 30 days
You can only book the driving test after holding the learner's licence for more than 30 days. Use that time well: daily sessions with a driving school, practice on the 'H' or '8' layout, and real traffic on KP Road. With a learner's licence, you must have an "L" board on the vehicle and a licensed driver beside you.
Step 4: The new Hazard Perception Test (from December 2026)
From December 2026, Kerala adds a computer-based Hazard Perception Test before the practical tests. You'll watch 10 one-minute video clips and click when you spot a developing hazard. You need 60 out of 100 to move on to the ground and road tests. Full guide to the Hazard Perception Test.
Step 5: Ground test and road test
On test day, bring your application and learner's licence to the test ground named on it, at the date and time given. The ground test checks vehicle control: the 'H' layout for cars, the '8' figure for two-wheelers. The road test checks lane discipline, mirrors and indicators, signals and braking in real traffic. The MVD has changed the order of these tests in recent years, so ask your school which comes first at KL-31 this month.
Step 6: Your smart card licence
Pass both, and your licence is approved. The smart card driving licence is sent by post, and you can usually download a digital copy through DigiLocker or mParivahan before it arrives.
Quick timeline
| Stage | Earliest timing |
|---|---|
| Learner's licence | Day 1 (same day as passing the online test) |
| Driving test eligible | After day 30 |
| Learner's licence expires | Month 6 |
How Maria MDS helps
We handle the paperwork with you: the Sarathi application, learner's test prep, slot booking and the test-day car with an instructor on site. Our school is at 3rd Mile, Kattanam, a short drive from Bharanikkavu, Pallickal and Kattachira.
Book on WhatsApp or call +91 70345 81417.